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Military Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UG Solutions

Interpreter

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Proven interpretation/translation experience in a military, government, or defense contractor setting.

MultiLingual Solutions

Language Interpreter

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires with ...

Ascensus Global Inc.

Language Interpreter

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires with ...

Ascensus Global Inc

Language Interpreter

Reading, PA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires ...

MultiLingual Solutions

Language Interpreter

Ashland, VA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires ...

Ascensus Global Inc

Language Interpreter

Charlotte, NC

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires with ...

Ascensus Global Inc.

Language Interpreter

Reading, PA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires ...

Ascensus Global Inc

Language Interpreter

Ashland, VA

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires ...

Ascensus Global Inc.

Language Interpreter

Pottsville, PA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

S. military and intelligence customers, as well as over 2,000 civilian government, commercial and ... In this role, interpreters will provide in-person, and possibly remote, support for new hires ...

State of Arkansas

INTERPRETER

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$57K - $84K/yr

Interpreter Class Code: CPR04I Pay Grade: SGS07 Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879 Join the Arkansas ... military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

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Military Interpreter information

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How much do military interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for military interpreter in the United States is $64,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a military interpreter?

A Military Interpreter facilitates communication between military personnel and local populations, allies, or other foreign entities. They translate spoken and written language in high-pressure environments, often in combat zones or diplomatic settings. Their role is crucial for intelligence gathering, negotiations, and ensuring mission success. Military Interpreters must be fluent in multiple languages and have a strong understanding of cultural nuances. They often work alongside military units, government agencies, and international organizations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a military interpreter?

Military Interpreters require fluency in at least two languages, exceptional listening and comprehension abilities, and a sound understanding of military terminology and protocols. Familiarity with secure communication tools, translation software, and, in some cases, accreditation from organizations like the ATA or relevant military interpreter certification is often necessary. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial assets. These competencies ensure accurate, confidential communication and effective support of military operations in diverse and high-stakes environments.

What types of assignments and environments can a military interpreter expect to work in?

Military Interpreters may be assigned to a variety of settings, including field operations, strategic briefings, training exercises, or document translation tasks, both in the U.S. and abroad. You might work with military personnel, allied forces, or local populations to facilitate clear communication across language barriers. The work environment can range from offices and command centers to on-the-ground locations, sometimes in challenging or austere conditions. Frequent collaboration with intelligence officers, commanders, and diplomatic staff is typical, and adaptability to new situations is key. This dynamic role offers opportunities for growth, especially for those who demonstrate expertise in high-demand languages or pursue further military education and training.

How much do military interpreters make?

Military interpreters typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and security clearance level. They may also receive additional benefits such as hazard pay, overtime, and language proficiency bonuses.

How to become a military interpreter?

To become a military interpreter, candidates typically need fluency in at least two languages, often including English and a foreign language, along with strong communication skills. Relevant certifications, such as the Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT), and security clearances are usually required, and some roles may require prior military or translation experience.

What does a military interpreter do?

A military interpreter translates spoken and written communication between military personnel and foreign individuals, ensuring clear understanding across languages. They often work in high-pressure environments, require fluency in multiple languages, and may need security clearances or specialized training.
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Military Interpreter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Military Interpreter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,020 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Military Programs Interpreter

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

$20 - $29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Colonial Williamsburg rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 29 rated museums

Job description

Who We Are
Founded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is "that the future may learn from the past" through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia's colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation.
Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 88 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library.
Additionally, Colonial Williamsburg is home to five world class accommodations at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, the Griffin Hotel, the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotels and Suites and the unique Colonial Houses in the Historical Area. Visitors may also indulge in food and drink at our many on-site restaurants and taverns that blend a historically inspired dining experience with today's evolved tastes. Each year over 5 million people visit Williamsburg and another 20 million engage with us digitally.
About the Position
The primary function of the Military Programs Interpreter is to understand, preserve, and demonstrate the varied facets of soldiering and military life in late colonial Virginia and during the American War for Independence, and to present those skills to the public both orally and in written form. The interpreter must become proficient in these skills and knowledge to be able to teach future staff, helping ensure the knowledge is passed on to future staff members. The interpreter is expected to learn and demonstrate mastery of the subject matter while providing the highest quality guest experience possible.
Main Duties:
  1. Learns and develops proficiency in the skills of the eighteenth-century soldier, including mastery of five Manual Exercises, sewing, leather artificership, firearms maintenance and repair, penmanship, record keeping, and other daily life skills through a 5 year, multidiscipline curriculum. Increases knowledge in each skill area and uses information to expand interpretation to the guests, gained through completing work assignments outlined in the Military Programs curriculum. The progression of the interpreter is based on the successful completion of learned skills as defined in the Military Programs curriculum.
  2. Researches 18th military history as outlined in the Military Programs curriculum, including reading and transcribing relevant treatises, orderly books, pension, letters, and ledgers. Works collaboratively with members of the work unit and representatives of other work units (for example: research) in developing recommendations on new and/or varied interpretive contributions. Gives presentations on research as appropriate. Write reports, articles, and social media postings on findings.
  3. Provides in-depth interpretations on soldiering, its history, and its impact on the community, region, and the world; the technology, processes, skills, organization, and working environment of the military; the lives experiences of those who fought for the cause of American Liberty; the evolution of soldiering and military doctrines and disciplines during the American Revolution; relationships between military organizations, etc. to a variety of audiences in a variety of settings.
  4. Fosters a "progressive" (or constantly striving to learn, grow, and improve) approach to history and interpretation, endeavoring to study, reproduce, and highlight unique material culture relevant to Virginia and the Revolutionary War, and to accurately portray military units integral to Virginia's fight for Independence, while promoting a tangible and experiential learning environment for guests and staff.
  5. Actively assists in developing new, engaging, diverse and inclusive programming, adhering to the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation's Master Interpretive Plan, and Strategic Plan. Works to continually refine and master military subject matter and interpretive techniques.
  6. Provides in-depth interpretation on the political, social, and economic history of the city of Williamsburg and the colony of Virginia while wearing historic costume in a variety of weather and operating conditions.
  7. Learn and demonstrate various 18th century military manuals, which includes the safe firing of black powder firearms and cannons for Colonial Williamsburg programming. As proficiency progresses, to be able to instruct other staff and guests in these disciplines.
  8. Maintain and adhere to safe black powder procedures in accordance with current ATF standards.
  9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required and Preferred Education and Experience:
Required: High school degree/G.E.D. with a general knowledge of 18th c. colonial history.
Preferred: Four-year Degree in American History and or in a subject relating to the occupation; taken a course in the military history; experience in historic presentation in a living history environment; familiarity with the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Trades and Skills program. Demonstrated skills in the following areas: public speaking, public contact, research, writing, and computer skills.
Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Residency in the state of Virginia is required and must be established no later than 30 days after the start date.
Communication
  1. Ability to organize and present information in verbal and written form to diverse audiences.
  2. Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
  3. Ability to use a variety of interactive techniques in making presentations to guests.

Guest Relations
  1. Ability to present and maintain a warm and enthusiastic demeanor with guests and co-workers.
  2. Ability to deal with the public in both one-on-one and large group situations.
  3. Ability to handle a variety of guest interactions and conduct guest problem solving.
  4. Ability to balance the needs of our guests with the needs of the organization.
  5. Ability to establish and maintain cordial and productive relationships with both co-workers and guests.

Decision Making
  1. Ability to make timely, correct decisions to resolve problems, especially during crucial safety situations.
  2. Ability to handle multiple priorities.
  3. Ability to work within a strict set of guidelines.

Knowledge and Skills
  1. Ability to read and assimilate information.
  2. Must be able to become familiar with and competent in the safe operation of black powder firearms.
  3. Must be able to become an Employee Possessor as part of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation's Black Powder License.
  4. Ability to use Foundation computers and existing software including Kronos time management system, some Microsoft Office products, and other Colonial Williamsburg approved media devices and programs as systems are upgraded.
  5. Ability or willingness to learn to translate knowledge and skills to interpretive mediums outside of the job site to provide assistance in generating media content for extended engagement of guests and potential new audiences.

This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.
Compensation Disclaimer: The compensation listed below for this position represents the anticipated hiring range and is provided in accordance with Virginia pay transparency requirements. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the selected candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, internal equity, and the specific requirements of the role.
Range: $20.00 to $29.00
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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